💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: What are zombie cells in ageing?
- A: Zombie cells are senescent cells that stop dividing but resist death. They secrete inflammatory factors that damage surrounding tissue and accumulate as autophagy declines with age.
- Q: How does macrophage autophagy decline trigger ageing?
- A: Macrophages rely on autophagy to clear damaged proteins and senescent cells. When autophagy weakens, clearance fails, zombie cells pile up, and low-grade inflammation accelerates tissue ageing.
- Q: Can boosting autophagy slow or reverse ageing?
- A: Preclinical studies show enhancing macrophage autophagy can reduce senescent cell burden and inflammation. Human therapies are still experimental and require safety validation.